122 episodes

Are you feeling lonely or struggling to make friends? You're not alone. In 'Friendless,' host James Avramenko explores the ups and downs of friendship, the challenges of making new connections, and the impact of social isolation on our mental health. Each episode, James talks to people from all walks of life who have experienced friendship struggles and share their stories of triumph and perseverance. From overcoming shyness to navigating social anxiety, 'Friendless' offers practical tips and empathetic advice to help you build meaningful connections and find your community. Join James as he explores the complex world of human connection and the power of friendship.

Friendless James Avramenko

    • Society & Culture
    • 4.5 • 37 Ratings

Are you feeling lonely or struggling to make friends? You're not alone. In 'Friendless,' host James Avramenko explores the ups and downs of friendship, the challenges of making new connections, and the impact of social isolation on our mental health. Each episode, James talks to people from all walks of life who have experienced friendship struggles and share their stories of triumph and perseverance. From overcoming shyness to navigating social anxiety, 'Friendless' offers practical tips and empathetic advice to help you build meaningful connections and find your community. Join James as he explores the complex world of human connection and the power of friendship.

    Meeting Our Past and Future Selves (part 2) (with special guest Scott Hendrickson)

    Meeting Our Past and Future Selves (part 2) (with special guest Scott Hendrickson)

    In this very special part 2 episode, your pal James Avramenko and guest Scott Hendrickson continue their discussion on the nuanced landscape of friendship, forgiveness, and the courage to confront one's past. They candidly explore their journey of reconciliation, unpacking the impact of personal growth and the ebbs and flows that challenge even the strongest of bonds.

    The episode unveils Scott's key strategies to cultivate more meaningful relationships, such as small acts of appreciation and creating spaces for open vulnerability. Engaging in a heartfelt discussion, James and Scott reflect on their own friendship's past tumultuous phases, touching upon the essential elements of mutual support and accountability that have fortified their rekindled connection.

    Listeners are privy to the pair's raw and unfiltered exchange on the tightrope of respect and understanding in friendships, especially when coping with external influences like romantic relationships or conflicting viewpoints. They underscore the potent combination of love, gratitude, and honest communication as the pillars of a resilient friendship.

    By delving into stories of second chances, James emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness, both of others and of oneself, advocating for unlimited opportunities for personal redemption. Scott contributes his insights on cultivating a diverse community, reinforcing the importance of exposure to a wide array of perspectives to foster personal growth and improved mental well-being.

    This episode provides practical perspectives on constructing a life rooted in empathetic connections and the individual's responsibility for self-improvement within the context of community support. As a powerful testament to the sometimes rocky road of rebuilding trust and intimacy, the dialogue between Scott and James serves as a beacon of hope for listeners faced with the challenge of mending fractured friendships.

    To continue the conversation and explore more empowering content, follow "Friendless" on social media:

    Read the weekly Substack! [https://friendless.substack.com/]

    Follow Friendless on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlesspod]

    and on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/friendlesspod/]

    Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"  [https://www.instagram.com/heysorryimissedyou/]

    Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!! [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/friendlesspod]

    • 1 hr 27 min
    Meeting Our Past and Future Selves (part 1) (with special guest Scott Hendrickson)

    Meeting Our Past and Future Selves (part 1) (with special guest Scott Hendrickson)

    This week on a very special episode of "Friendless,"  host James Avramenko is joined by his oldest friend Scott Hendrickson to explore the multifaceted nature of friendship, the importance of authenticity, and the poignant reflections on personal growth. 

    James and Scott revisit the foundation of their long-standing friendship, from their shared experiences in the arts during middle school to the challenges they faced in a blue-collar, trades-driven educational system.

    Scott opens up about his struggle to find a sense of community, delving into his desire to connect with various cultures and the impact of his actions on those relationships. Both reflect on the weight of intentions versus actions and the delicate balance of intent versus impact in the fabric of friendships. Central to their dialogue is the concept of friendship itself, highlighting qualities such as acceptance, support, and the shared journey of personal evolution.

    The episode takes an emotional turn as they discuss the significance of reconnecting after years apart, the comedic misunderstandings surrounding identity, and the gravity of being true to oneself. They tackle complex ideas including the concept of being an "old soul," the pursuit of authenticity, and the bittersweet realization that life is a transient, shared experience of "walking each other home."

    Listeners are invited to contemplate the role of emotional regulation, the perils of ideological focus, and the enduring bond of companionship through life's intricacies. This is just the first part of a two-part conversation that is sure to resonate deeply with anyone interested in the true meaning of friendship and self-discovery.

    Prepare to connect with James's heartfelt storytelling, Scott's poignant reflections, and soul-stirring music that accompanies this deep exploration. Don't miss this compelling narrative on the power of human connections and the road to self-awareness.

    Remember to follow "Friendless" for the concluding segment in "Scott Part 2," stay updated with our weekly Substack, and connect with us on TikTok and Instagram. Share your thoughts on the episode with a 5-star review and consider supporting the show by buying the hosts a coffee. Let's discover what it means to be truly friendless, together.

    Follow Friendless on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlesspod]

    Follow Friendless on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/friendlesspod/]

    Read the weekly Substack! [https://friendless.substack.com/]

    Buy Me A Coffee – Support the Show! [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/friendlesspod]

    • 1 hr 5 min
    Still Here (with special guest Kat Jeffery)

    Still Here (with special guest Kat Jeffery)

    In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko and guest Kat Jeffery unpack the nuanced nature of friendship and self-discovery through a gripping and honest dialogue. James and Kat rekindle a connection from 15 years past, exploring the progression from substance-fueled partying to soberiety, and present interactions that reveal who our true friends are. 

    Listeners are invited to delve into the real meaning of unconditional love in friendships, as James questions the balance between unwavering support and allowing friends to face the consequences of their actions—a true act of care. Kat shares her life-altering journey from partying to sobriety, providing a powerful testament to the purity and risk involved in a friend's intervention.

    This episode also touches on the influence of geography on maintaining connections while pursuing personal growth, the significance of mentorship, and the impact of creating art that connects with others. James and Kat dive deep into the influence of literary legends like Sylvia Plath and Joan Didion on their lives and how certain works have shaped their relationships and behaviour.

    Additionally, the dialogue delves into themes of artistic identity, debunking the myth of the 'starving artist,' and recognising the importance of acknowledging and seizing significant life opportunities. The fluid discourse later covers the impact of social media on authentic human interaction, the importance of integrity, and the challenge of competing in a capitalistic society.

    Artistic reflection, codependency, and personal authenticity round out the discussion, offering listeners profound reflections on how to navigate one's narrative with honesty and intentionality.

    Remembering the personal milestones of friends, seizing creative impulses, and the sense of community are just a few of the poignant moments in this episode that will resonate with artists, seekers, and friends alike.

    Stay connected with the growth-oriented and heartfelt narratives of "Friendless":

    Follow Kat's work on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/katjeffski/]

    Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/friendlesspod/] and TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlesspod] for behind-the-scenes content. 

    Join our community on Substack [https://friendless.substack.com/] for weekly reflective pieces.

    Support Friendless on Buy Me A Coffee [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/friendlesspod] for exclusive perks.

    Tune in to discover why knowing when to stand by or step back from a friend might be the highest act of love.

    • 1 hr 25 min
    How to Reframe Internal Narratives (March Lil' Guy)

    How to Reframe Internal Narratives (March Lil' Guy)

    In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko takes listeners on a deep dive into the themes of accountability, the complexities of love, and the transformative practice of reframing. James reflects on his own journey towards self-discovery, sharing personal anecdotes about facing his shadow-self, reassessing relationships, and the ongoing work of self-acceptance. 

    Listeners will join James as he delves into the critical role of self-love and the powerful notion of inward accountability, providing practical insights into how one can extend love to oneself first before sharing it with others. Through the lens of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), he sheds light on alternative ways to perceive past memories and challenges, revealing how these tools have been instrumental in his growth.

    As he contrasts the dynamics of nurturing friendships with the cautious expression of love, James also touches upon the theme of authenticity, contemplating why people lie and the repercussions of deceit. This heartfelt episode promises to resonate with anyone who's grappling with transitions, seeking to understand the intricacies of human connections, and striving towards a compassionate acceptance of self and others.

    DBT workbook [https://www.amazon.ca/Dialectical-Behavior-Therapy-Skills-Workbook/dp/1684034582/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1QUTMGR71CRSC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.NWIyFUbqerTS85BIf6F6GL6Y93td2-cgg0eOuNHiDUBFs6WWIPgVJybubdyczPPgm615cJkdMGELBBXi92c_El1PfRyfGfQZ52VXnjQWF3e342K46XMWuBrpoABpQDmcNg6BqN0UWxdryGwb7U5rRr55Phrg_yx7ARjTRiHvzFX4zPI4mw8eGg8iAJNGl2pKGT2mue0AgNgg0WyOy8P5Km-CjafzWVzkNjLlR1-qKPBBECASGcJndtFbJEdf9Kx_wQtExEraXudSHydKtJqYDc5ZrCAT6WnunL-NRMu4GIw.vOmZxhjkj7y6zbqxR-N-4vq2UWcoEAwKpOz7BQT0Ul8&dib_tag=se&keywords=dbt+workbook&qid=1711390067&sprefix=dbt%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-5]

    CBT resources [https://www.amazon.ca/Cognitive-Behavioral-Workbook-Anxiety-Step/dp/1626250154/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5GGxq0DUtUsc3mP-UjwqDdH-Y44tE8hX80O9ir5FxqOjhI0qd5KR0Vy9kS8CHgPpcnloQTyf3DSnuAM4cHfpTBdWCImnTXHYjE06Kw4otf0HdGnLJDizMEUEoz1bqfcK9Jcqnb-9ZoC860a25U4EvRPtmSa_ibGbT7_CIjCoT2TTBRx8G6i0SKjzTD07hcxilzg_-60s3OzMl3V15ULkLtVSLt1uCW3_pi-HzI_UbFFn1h6R_zCmWXofmPMfwahhsRaV7tEfzzfwfJUteHJMcSuG99LClMvvFQaXXXjkt2g.Aif-VscQRiAiAvOBNmILPHF5HhZlpcAqu6eSUlmCFpM&qid=1711390085&sr=8-10]

    Read the weekly Substack! [https://friendless.substack.com/]

    Follow Friendless on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlesspod]

    and on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/friendlesspod/]

    Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"  [https://www.instagram.com/heysorryimissedyou/]

    Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!! [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/friendlesspod]

    • 41 min
    The Sober Road Goes On and On (with special guest Bryan Nothling)

    The Sober Road Goes On and On (with special guest Bryan Nothling)

    This week on a very special episode of Friendless, your pal and host James Avramenko welcomes back Bryan Nothling aka The Bnoth. In a candid conversation between two creative souls, they dive deep into the unpredictable waters of success and the unspoken financial challenges artists contend with. Both share personal anecdotes from their stints in alternate careers, like plumbing and blacksmithing, and discuss the physical and psychological toll these jobs took on them.

    The episode shifts to more existential topics, opening up a discussion on the nuanced meaning of friendship, the pursuit of a sober life, and the complexities of grieving and forgiving oneself.

    Bryan and James touch upon the critical notion of community and how artistry, recovery, and human connection interplay in their lives. They explore their responsibilities within these communities, the impact of addiction, and how sobriety has shaped their personal growth and creative output.

    Listeners are also privy to their thoughts on the contemporary housing crisis, the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health, and the collective trauma society is yet to address fully.

    Amidst the heavy topics, there's also room for lighter, albeit peculiar, conversations about blacksmithing, the taboo around eating certain meats, and the questionable ethics of animal breeding.

    In an inspiring turn, James thanks Bryan for his role in his sobriety journey, and they discuss celebrating life's small victories, including Bryan's tips for finding joy in the everyday. Towards the end, Bryan leaves us with actionable advice urging listeners to craft deeper connections through kindness, setting the tone for a parting message filled with hope and encouragement.

    Catch this episode for an intimate exploration of sobriety, creativity, the power of human connection, and how to navigate life's complexities—one day and one kind word at a time.

    Remember to follow the journey, leave a review, sign up for the newsletter, and join us next time on Friendless for more thoughtful exchanges.

    Sign up for the weekly Substack! [https://friendless.substack.com/]

    Follow Friendless on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlesspod]

    and on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/friendlesspod/]

    Follow "Hey, sorry I missed you"  [https://www.instagram.com/heysorryimissedyou/]

    Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!! [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/friendlesspod]

    • 1 hr 11 min
    You Don't Know What You Don't Know (with special guest Jabree Robinson)

    You Don't Know What You Don't Know (with special guest Jabree Robinson)

    Join host James Avramenko on very special episode Friendless for an enlightening conversation with Jabree Robinson, a martial arts merch expert and queer community icon. 

    They discuss the undiscovered gem that is Bellingham, why you don't know you don't know, and  the transformative power of grace. 

    Sign up for the weekly Substack! [https://friendless.substack.com/]

    Follow Friendless on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlesspod]

    and on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/friendlesspod/]

    Read "Hey, sorry I missed you"  [https://www.instagram.com/heysorryimissedyou/]

    Support the show, Buy Me A Coffee!! [https://www.buymeacoffee.com/friendlesspod]

    • 1 hr 14 min

Customer Reviews

4.5 out of 5
37 Ratings

37 Ratings

Flynn Trinity ,

So good!

I would sleep more if I could stop binging this podcast.

Mister Stinky ,

I love this show

So far just started. Listened to Jacob Richmond. Lovely stuff. Yay.

jgreenkey ,

Disconnect to Reconnect

Super intriguing and engaging host! Love to hear the stories of each guest every week!

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